Jining launched a three-year action plan in 2022 to green its barren mountains. It has already made significant progress by greening 62,300 mu (about 4,153.33 hectares), with a survival rate of over 95 percent.

This initiative has not only beautified the environment but also generated substantial benefits for the local community. It has created employment opportunities for 120,000 individuals and boosted the income of the masses by a combined total of nearly 37 million yuan ($5.12 million).

In 2024, Jining is gearing up for a final push to complete the greening of an additional 353.33 hectares of barren mountains. Significant progress has already been made, with essential supporting facilities such as water and roads already in place throughout the city. Land leveling efforts are 66 percent complete and encompass 233.33 hectares, while newly afforested areas cover 83.33 hectares, representing 23 percent of the target.

A view of the greenery at Weishan Lake in Jining, East China's Shandong province. [Photo/VCG]